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PROCEEDINGS ATTENDING THE PRESENTATION 



REGIMENTAL COLOES 

TO THE LEGISLATURE, 
April 20, 1864. 




ALBANY: 

VAN BENTHUYSEN's STEAM PRINTING HOUSE. 

1864. 





THIS WORK IS DEDICATED 



VOLUNTEER TROOPS FROM THE STATE OF NEW YORK, 



TESTIMONY OF THEIR DEVOTION 



COMMON COUNTRY. 



JOHN T. SPRAGUE, Adjutant General. 



Head Quarters State of New York, 
Albany, N. Y., June 20, 1864. 





MAR 17 19*& 



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Ok 





HIS KXCELLENCY 

HORATIO SEYMOUR, 

GOVERNOR, 

COMMANDER-m-CHIEF OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK. 



ADJUTANT GENERAL, 

Brig. Gen. JOHN T. SPRAGUE, 

(Lt. Col. 11th Infantry U. S. Army.) 
INSPECTOR GENERAL, 

Brig. Gen. JOSIAH T. MILLER. 

ENGINEER-IN-CHIEF, 

Brig. Gen. ISAAC YANDERPOEL. 

JUDGE ADVOCATE GENERAL, 

Brig. Gen. NELSON T. WATERBURY. 

SURGEON GENERAL, 

Brig. Gen. JOHN Y. P. QUACKENBUSH. 

quartermaster general, 
Brig. Gen. S. YISSCHER TALCOTT. 

paymaster general, 
CoL. JOHN D. YAN BUREN. 

AID-DE-CAMP, 

CoL. B. TIBBITS. 

MILITARY SECRETARY, 

Maj. WILLIAM KIDD. 

^^ Albany, June 1, 1864. 







PROCEEDINGS 



k IN REGARD TO THE 



pnESESTATION OF HEGIMENTAL FLAGS. 



In Assembly, AVednesday, April 13, 1S64. 

By unanimous consent, on motion of Mr. 
Crooke, 

Eesolved (if the Senate concur), That the Senate and As- 
sembly will irieet at this Chamber ou Wodnesda}'- evening-, 
20 til iiist., at 7 o'clock, to receive the flags of vt)lunteer 
regiments of this State. 

Mr. Crooke moved that a session of the House 
be held on Wednesday evening for that purpose. 

Mr. Speaker put the question, whether the 
House would agree to said motion, and it was 
determined in the affirmative. 

Returned from Senate April 15th, with notice 
of concurrence. 







BUHEAU OF MtUTARV STATISTICS. 




The Legislature in 1863, made provision for 
an office, whose particular business it should be 
to collect for preservation and future historical 
use, the records and statistics which should tend 
to illustrate the action of the people of the State 
of New York in the present war. These inqui- 
ries embraced biographies of officers and men, 
the history of regiments, and the action of towns, 
counties and cities, having reference to the rais- 
ing of men or means for the war, or the support 
of families of volunteers. 

The Laws of 1864 (Chapter 51), made further 
provision for continuing the Bureau of Military 
Statistics, and for greatly extending its facilities. 

A part of its duties related to the custody of 
the flags of regiments whose term of service had 
expired, and those colors which from wear and 
injury were of no further use in the field. Of 





PRESENTATION OF 





these, nearly one hundred have now been col- 
lected, and it is believed that ultimately the 
greater part of these honored memorials of the 
valor and patriotism of New York troops, will be 
gathered into this repository. 

On the 23d of April, 1863, seven regimental 
flags, which had been returned to the State, were 
presented to the Governor, in the presence of the 
Legislature, with impressive ceremonies. 

The intention of the State Government in 
adopting these measures, w^as mainly to express 
to the world, and to place upon record in the 
most solemn and eloquent manner, their high 
appreciation of the services of its troops in the 
field, and to convey to such as might then or 
thereafter be engaged in the service, an assur- 
ance that their patriotism and valor were known 
and approved. While resting assured that these 
troops would do or omit nothing that should dis- 
honor themselves or the State, it was deemed 
projDcr to bring prominently before their minds 
the important truth, that their conduct was under 
observation, and that their victories were a sub- 
ject of gratification and pride to the State. A 





REGIMENTAL COLORS. 





motive was thus added for winning new laurels 
in the campaign, and of adding a new lustre to 
their fame. Every soldier might feel that upon 
himself depended in some degree the reputation 
and honor of the Empire State, and that his 
personal character was pledged in their main- 
tenance and defence. 

During the year 1863, and early months of 
1864, many flags were added to the collections 
of the Bureau of Military Statistics, and of these 
fifty that had been borne by regiments and 
batteries in the field, were presented by the 
Governor to the Legislature, convened for that 
occasion, in the Assembly Chamber, on the 
evening of April 20th, 1864. To the proceed- 
ings upon that occasion, and to the history of 
the Hags then presented, the present work is 
devoted. 

The Bureau of Military Statistics is now 
authorized to receive worn out flags from organ- 
izations still in the service, in exchange for new. 
The law provides that requisitions for new flags 
claimed under this act, shall be made by the 
commanding officers of regiments uj^on the Quar- 





PRESENTATION OF 





ter Master General, and that they shall be 
accompanied by a certificate of the Chief of the 
Bureau of Military Statistics, that the old flag 
with its accompanying history has been deposited 
in his office. 

The Bureau is also forming a museum of arti- 
cles of military interest connected with the 
present war, and arrangements are being made 
for the preservation of its collections against 
chance of accident, and for their public display. 

As extensive a collection as possible is being 
made of biographical notices, journals and narra- 
tives, published documents, correspondence and 
original papers. These will be carefully kept 
for future reference and use, under such regula- 
tions as may be deemed necessary for their safety. 
Such photographic or other portraits of officers 
or privates, as may be contributed to the collec- 
tion, will be indexed and bound, or otherwise 
preserved. 

The active co-operation of officers and soldiers 
now or formerly in the public service, is soli- 
cited in increasing the collections already begun. 
The united effiarts of our citizens may it is hoped 





REGIMENTAL COLORS. 




form a collection that will acquire interest and 
value commensurate with the magnitude and 
importance of the subject, and present a lasting 
evidence of the patriotic efforts of the people of 
New York in the preservation of the Union, in 
the present great national crisis. 

All communications or donations intended for 
this purpose, should be addressed to 

CoL. LOCKWOOD L. DOTY, 
Chief of Bureau of Military Statistics, 

Albany, N. Y. 






PRESENTATION OF 




PBOCEEDINGS ON PRESENTATION OF FIACS. 




The Assembly met at the appointed hour, and 
being called to order, committees were appointed 
to wait upon the Governor, Lieutenant Governor, 
Adjutant General, and Senate, to notify them 
that they were in readiness to receive them. 

The Senate having arrived, were seated in 
front of the Speaker's desk. The flags were 
then brought in, each one being borne by a 
young gentleman who volunteered for the occa- 
sion, and arranged in a double line along the 
middle aisle of the Assembly Chamber. 

The Governor, Adjutant General and Military 
Staft', accompanied by the Assembly Committees, 
consisting of Gen. Crooke, Col. Bullock, Capt. 
FiLKiNs, Capt. Oswald and Capt. Parker, then 
came in and took their places, the Governor in 
the Chair presiding, with the Speaker of the 
Assembly on his right. 





REGIMENTAL COLORS. 





A large number of citizens and ladies were 
present, and a band of music was in attendance. 

After the convention had been called to order, 
Adjutant General Sprague arose and delivered 
the following address : 

" ' In Rama there was a voice heard ; lament- 
ation, and weeping, and great moaning : Rachel 
weeping for her children, and would not be com- 
forted because they are not.' 

" To-night there is a voice coming up to us 
throughout this land, reverberating within these 
walls with fearful emphasis and melancholy 
cadence, breaking upon the hearts of many now 
Avithin the sound of my voice : it is the wail of 
America weeping for her children, 

" It is meet for us to be here to-night, my 
countrjinen, and may we, like the patriarch of 
old, come up high upon Mount Horeb to worship. 
Here let us burn incense upon the altar of our 
countr}^, and may the smoke of the sacrifice rise 
above these venerated walls, surmounting the 
hills around us, and settle down upon every 
heart in our distracted land. 

Why this forest of banners here to-night ? 





PRESENTATION OF 





spectres of bloody battle-fields; cerements of 
the grave ; fit garments for brave men. It is 
because our country is rent by a civil war. Every 
one of these have a tale of fearful and eventful 
interest, of joy and sorrow, of glory and renown. 
" Those stars, now dimmed by the sulphurous 
smoke of the battle-field, once glittered and 
shone forth from many a secluded hamlet, from 
true and patriotic hearts throughout the State. 
Those stripes once shot forth like the radiance 
of a morning's sun, from cities, villages and 
associations, until they coruscated into the 
expressive banner of our country; while the 
dark eagle — emblematic of our greatness and 
power — soared aloft and swept its way to the 
battle-field, amid the universal shouts of a patri- 
otic and indignant people. Many a father gave 
a hearty fiirewell to his only son, as the tears 
coursed down the gorges of his manly cheek. 
Mothers clasped to their bosoms the support of 
their declining years, and bade God speed them 
to the battle-field. Wives clung tenaciously to 
the companions of their lives, while the house- 
hold extended their tiny hands to bid a last fare- 




well. She whose heart swelled with fervor and 
aifection in ' love's young dream,' tore asunder 
the cords that bound her, and Avith pride and 
enthusiasm saw in him the brave defender of her 
countrj^'s honor. 

" The shifting scenes of the drama have 
passed before us, and these banners have re- 
turned to narrate with graphic power, tales of 
sorrow and trials, as well as of fidelity, patriot- 
ism and renown. The eagle spreads his dark 
plumage o'ershadowing us with sadness, and 
perches upon many a solitary threshold within 
the limits of this State. Such a representation 
as we have here to-night, comes home to us with 
many salutary lessons of instruction. 

" It grapples with our hearts, arouses our sensi- 
bilities, awakens within us sober reflection, and 
bewilders the mind, when we attempt to with- 
draw the veil obscuring the future, and the cry 
involuntary comes forth, how long! Oh, how 
long shall our country be rent by a civil war ! 

" It is better for us to-night to be in the house 
of mourning than in the house of feasting. This 
is a time for serious reflection, when we should 





PRESENTATION OF 





look at facts and events without disguise. In 
this terrihle conflict now raging for the restora- 
tion of our country, the crisis has come. We 
are to conquer or be conquered. Our destiny is 
to restore the power of our country, the suprem- 
acy of our rights and our laws, our Constitution 
and the Union. If we fail in this, the iron 
yoke of bondage is upon us, and we become a 
by-word and a reproach to the civilized world. 

" The' fearful passions of revenge will ravage 
our land, and our hearthstones will be made deso- 
late Avith fire and with blood. Your hoarded 
wealth will be turned to cinders, and your gold 
to dross. This war can only be terminated by 
the power, by the energy and fidelity of the peo- 
ple. Blood and treasure must be staked, which, 
with a wise, sagacious, and charitable statesman- 
ship, our country will be restored. Men of all 
classes must come up to the work w^ithout parti- 
san or fanatical zeal, and with pure and patriotic 
sentiments. Personal and political feelings must 
be subdued ; and whatever may be the difference 
of opinion, accord to each, in charity, integrity 
and fidelity, in maintaining the power and supre- 





REGIMENTAL COLORS. 





macy of our country. Maintain our Govern- 
ment ; give to its measures a cordial support ; 
and if successful, it will meet a corresponding 
reward. If otherwise, punishment will ensue 
from the condemnation of the world. It is the 
people who control ; look to it with care, wisdom 
and caution. In my opinion this war has but 
commenced ; one part of the country is a battle- 
field where homes are desolated and wives and 
children are seeking shelter and food. Here, in 
our midst, extravagance, plethoric wealth, joy 
and carelessness prevail, and thousands are 
hoarding treasure gleaned from the blood of our 
countrymen. The rich man plies the measure of 
his demands as embarrassments increase, wrung 
from the daily toil of the soldier, the citizen, 
and the poor who earn their daily bread by the 
sweat of their brow. 

" Our streets are thronged by young and hearty 
men, as money keeps them from the conflict of 
arms. Money — gold — has become the repre- 
sentative of patriotism. That pure and genial 
flame that was ignited in the hearts of our fore- 
fathers, securing to us the institutions we so long 
3 




m 




PRESENTATION OF 





enjoyed, has become dimmed ; it is a phosphoric 
light that glitters, but is cold. 

" Being so far removed from the conflicts 
which we have observed for three years past, we 
have not realized the revenge and vindictive- 
ness of the enemy. The strife is now in the 
midst of us, around us, and before us. We have 
been made the instruments in the hands of a 
wise Providence, for the accomplishment of some 
great end, or for our punishment as a nation. 
Our course has been one of vain boasting, and 
self-reliance, not with penitential reverence for 
the blessings received. Patriotism is a reli- 
gion allied to our God. Without it, pure and 
unaffected, no nation can be saved. This pic- 
ture may not be acceptable, but they are flicts — 
unmistakable facts, and we should meet them 
like men. Let us draw lessons of instruction 
from the past, and look with courage and confi- 
dence to the future, keeping steadily in view the 
motto — ' conquer or be conquered.' 

" With all this we have much to be proud of in 
the events which have transpired during the past 
three years. The soldier is well cared for. The 





REGIMENTAL COLORS. 




United States Hospital Department is perfect in 
its details, and administered with vigor and 
liberality by its efficient officers. Upwards of a 
million and a half of dollars have been raised by 
Military Fairs in this State. The Sanitary and 
Christian Commission have been untiring in 
their zeal and devotion. The State has a depot 
for the soldier in the city of New York, in which 
twenty-seven thousand men have been made 
comfortable and hajDpy during the past year. 
Our armies have been victorious, and the ranks 
are being filled by patriotic and devoted men. 
Crushing this rebellion and restoring our coun- 
try, is but a question of time. 

" This State has sent to the field 293,000 men, 
and it would be strange, indeed, if there should 
not be mingled in their experience, much that is 
sorrowful, as well as the pride and glory sur- 
rounding achievements. 

*' These banners come back to us without 
reproach. There are now in the field upwards 
of one hundred and thirty thousand men from 
this State. Should occasion require, more are 
prepared to go. 





PRESENTATION OF 




" From the records now before me, which I 
shall read, there is enough to cause every citizen 
to be proud of his native State, and to cause a 
feeling of gratitude and of pride, that ' Excel- 
sior ' can be inscribed upon her banners without 

reproach. 

^ * # # * # 

" My task is done. As your representative, 
and on behalf of those brave men now in the 
field, and in the presence of both Houses of the 
Legislature, I deposit these colors in the Statis- 
tical Bureau of this State, and it is to be hoped 
that not a long time may elapse before an appro- 
priate building will be erected where they can 
be displayed in all time to come. There let the 
breezes of Heaven blow gently on their gaping 
wounds, amid the smiles and caresses of a free, 
intelligent, loyal and happy people. 

"The ivy may cling its tendrils around the 
sturdy oak, but the parent trunk must die. 

" The moss of ages may gather upon moulder- 
ing stones, broken columns, and the architecture 
of the age ; but the memory of these defenders 
of our country will live in a perennial green 






REGIMENTAL COLORS. 





and their names will be inscribed in letters of 
eternal and living light nj)on the escntcheon of 
their country. 

" Spirits of the departed brave, if you are per- 
mitted to look down upon our devotions here 
to-night, assemble around the immortal Washing- 
ton, and hear the accents of a grateful people. 
Peace ! Peace ! we will watch with pious care 
the laurels that shade your urns, and wear your 
names engraven upon our hearts." 

The flags were then brought forward by regi- 
ments in their numerical order, and the history 
of each was read by the Adjutant General, as 
hereinafter given. 

Mr. Alvord, the Speaker of the Assembly, 
then arose and made the following remarks : 

" Unprepared on this occasion, from the cir- 
cumstances which surround this period of time, 
yet at the request of those gathered together 
here, I shall say a few words to you. It is with 
mingled feelings of sad solemnity and joyousness 
that I do address you — a solemnity which has 
been impressed upon me by the words of the 
distinguished gentleman who has this night, in 





PRESENTATION OF 





the name of the regiments, presented these flags 
to take their pLace in the archives of the State. 
For he has spoken of troublous times which these 
flags have seen — of the blood, the slaughter, 
and the dead which have marked their pathway 
in the battles which have raged around them as 
they have been borne forth in the conflict ; but, 
at the same time, wdtli a joyous and buoyant 
feeling, I welcome these flags home again to 
their native soil of the State of New York, for 
it shows that her sons have fought nobly and 
well in this struggle for her country's good and 
for her maintenance and her perpetuity. We 
are fighting a battle in which we have got to 
conquer or die. We are fighting a battle in 
which is to be established for all time that God 
has written in the decrees of Heaven that man 
is to work it out upon earth that he is capable of 
self-government, and that we shall in the end be 
free. Many of these flags have been borne forth 
by regiments who, to-day, with a more firm step 
than when they first went forth, are now press- 
ing upon the last recesses of the enemies of our 
country. 





REGIMENTAL COLORS. 





"Aye, and I tell you that out of the remnants 
and battles which are here shown to you, there 
will come up a brighter and nobler banner in the 
future — our stars will be increased in multi- 
tude — our stripes will float over a free and 
happy people from one end of the country to the 
other. And welcome are these flags to the 
archives of our State, for each and every one of 
them is a page in its history. And I welcome 
them for another reason. Partizan feeling and 
party strifes sink into insignificance before them, 
for the blood of all of us has mingled in this 
strife — there has been no distinction — brothers 
have stood shoulder to shoulder with brothers, 
and exposed their lives to overcome the enemies 
of their country. I trust that these banners will 
bind around us the silken chains of concord and 
unity. I know that whatever may be our bick- 
erings here, when the time shall come, if it must 
needs come, it will be the one universal thought 
and action upon the part of the people of the 
North to fight on and fight ever, until the banner 
of our country, undimmed of any stars, and with 
no stripes removed from it, shall float free over 





PRESENTATION OF 





the land, from Maine to the Gulf, from the 
Atlantic to the Pacific. I thank you for having 
thus far listened to me. I have nothing further 
to say, except to introduce to you upon this occa- 
sion, as the presiding officer of this assemblage, 
one whose eloquence needs no eulogium from my 
tongue, and whose heart beats as warmly and as 
honestly for the Union as that of any among us." 

His Excellency, Governor Seymour, arose and 
addressed the assemblage as follows : 

" With a wise and patriotic liberality, this State 
has provided that the history of every regiment 
it has sent to the war shall be preserved, and 
that there shall be a place Avhere shall be depo- 
sited the banners which they have borne in the 
contests in which they have been engaged. I 
am sure that the heart of every man within the 
sound of my voice, has been moved this night, 
when he has seen these banners brought back 
again into our State, so sad, and yet so glorious. 

" Every one has been proud of our State, 
when we heard from the lips of General Sprague, 
from whence these banners went. That some 
were sent from the Great Metropolis, some from 





REGIMENTAL COLORS. 





the shores of our great lakes, others from the 
shores of Lake ChampLain, and others again from 
the valleys of the Mohawk, the Delaware, the 
Susquehanna, or the Allegany. From whatever 
part of our State they have gone, they went 
from sections that had already a glorious history. 
The whole history of New York, from its begin- 
ning to this day, has been an honorable one. It 
has required no stretch of imagination to pic- 
ture to ourselves the scene when these brave, 
bold and stalwart men went forth from the hills 
and valleys and cities of our land to battle for 
our flag. You have seen them from time to time, 
returning here shattered and broken, the mere 
remnants of those glorious bands, which excited 
our admiration and our enthusiasm on their 
departure. And in their history you have an 
epitome of the whole war. The banners that 
have been presented to you this night have been 
flxnned by the breezes of Carolina, have been 
dampened with the dews that have fallen in the 
swamps of Virginia, have drooped under the 
almost tropical sun of Louisiana, have floated 
high in the heavens ' in the battle above the 
4 





PRESENTATION OF 





clouds,' at Lookout Mountain, where, under their 
folds, we won an honorable victory. It is well 
that our State on this occasion has shown its 
ancient fidelity to the flag of our country, to the 
Union of these States, and to the Constitution 
of our land. It is fit and becoming that this 
great State, on whose soil this flag of ours was 
first given to the breezes of Heaven, and which 
was first displayed in defence of the very spot 
on which we now stand, shall be foremost in its 
defence. The State of New York has nearly 
130,000 men in the field. During the whole of 
this contest, it has furnished one-fifth of our 
armies. I believe I may say that her sons have 
been inferior to none in their bravery, their 
devotion, their courage or their patriotism. 

" I will not attempt to add to the emotions 
you have felt upon the display of these flags. I 
have no eloquence which shall compare with that 
of these mute emblems, whose very rags and 
tatters are made glorious with the memories and 
histories of martial achievements. I have only 
to add a fervent prayer that all the sacrifices that 
have been made, that the blood which has been 





REGIMENTAL COLORS. 





poured forth, may not have been made and shed 
in vain. May Almighty God, in his providence, 
grant that all these things may tend to the wel- 
flire, the glory, and the honor of this land of ours. 
In the midst of the darkness which now over- 
hangs us, in view of the uncertainties of the 
contest, with the full knowledge that still further 
life must be rendered up, and still more blood be 
shed for the cause in which we are engaged, 
placing full reliance upon a wisdom greater than 
man's wisdom, and trusting in a goodness and 
a mercy for superior to that which can actuate 
the human breast, we hope that these sacrifices 
may end in our country's glory and honor. I 
receive, on behalf of the great State, whose 
Chief Magistrate I am, these emblems of the 
valor and the patriotism of our sons. They will 
be set aside and preserved, monuments of the 
devotion of our people in the struggle for the 
success and glory of our common country." 

Gen. Crooke responded : 

" He said the main reason for his consenting 
to speak, was to speak with reference to his own 
locality. The reason why Long Island had no 





PRESENTATION OF 





representative among the flags was, that they 
felt so proud of their trophies, that they would 
not let them be taken from Brooklyn. They 
preferred to keep them there. He was glad that 
mention had been made of the militia. He was 
proud of the militia. He referred to the 14th 
Brooklyn regiment, which rejoiced in being 
called the Militia of the Army of the Potomac. 
The militia did amount to something, and it had 
sometimes been said that he had ' militia on the 
brain.' Let it be so understood. He was ready 
to make sacrifices for that branch of the service. 
To a great extent, the militia of the State owed 
its efficiency to Governor Seymour. 

" The Governor had done much to aid in the 
organization, and it was proper that he should 
have credit. He felt more sanguine of the result 
of the contest in which we are engao-ed than 
Gen. Sprague had expressed. He did not feel 
despondent. He could not but feel that the 
result would be successful and glorious, and he 
presumed he should think so if the war was 
to continue for ten years to come. He be- 
lieved the ladies sympathized with him in this 





REGIMENTAL COLORS. 





opinion, for they always had confidence in good 
results." 

The following lines, written by Alfred B. 
Street, State Librarian, were prepared for the 
occasion : 

Aye, bring back the banners anJ fold them in rest ! 
They have wrought their liigh mission, tlieir holy behest ! 
Stained with blood, scorcdied with flume, hanging tattered and 

torn, 
Yet dearer, by far, tlian when, bright, they were borne 
By brave liearts to glory ! 

As we gaze at their tatters, what battle-fields rise, 
Fields flashing in deeds of sublimest emprise? 
When earth rocked with thnnder, the sky glared with fire. 
And Havoc's red pinion dashed onward in ire ! 
Deeds deathless in glory ! 

Press the stars to the lips, clasp the stripes to the heart ! 
Let us swear their grand memories shall not depart ! 
They have waved in this contest of Freedom and Right, 
And our Eagle shall waft them, wide streaming in light, 
To our summit of glory ! 

There — hope darting beacons, starred shrines — shall they 

glow. 
Lighting Liberty's way to the breast of the foe; — 
Till her spear smites with splendor the gloom, and our sun, 
One broad central orb, shall again brighten one 
Mighty nation of glory ! 





PRESENTATION OP 




The ceremonies of the evening being com- 
pleted, the Governor and Senate withdrew, and 
the Speaker declared the House adjourned to the 
stated hour for business on the following day. 






REGIMENTAL COLORS. 




COLORS OF THE tOTH REGIMENT N. V. S. V. 

(One Flag.) 



This flag was presented by the city of New 
York, on the departure of the 10th regiment to 
the seat of war. 

It was the first American flag raised over the 
Custom House at Norfolk, Va., after its recovery 
by Union troops, and was borne in the Seven 
Days before Hichmond, 2d Bull Run, Antietam 
and-FREDERiCKSBURGH. At the latter place it Avas 
shot from the hands of the bearer. Several of 
the guard were killed under it. The 10th regi- 
ment left a battalion of four companies that has 
since been increased to six, in the field, upon the 
return of the main body at the expiration of its 
two years term. The flag is transmitted to the 
State Archives by Major Geo. F. Hooper. 






PRESENTATION OF 




GOIORS OF THE t2TH REGtMENT U. V. $. V. 



(One Flag.) 



This regiment was organized at Syracuse, 
although Constantia, Batavia and Homer each 
furnished a company. At Syracuse, upon leav- 
ing for the seat of war (May 2d, 1861), the ladies 
presented this flag, which has been carried 
through every service in which it has been 
engaged. At the expiration of two years, the 
regiment returned, and the flag was placed in 
the custody of the State. 

The 12th regiment was engaged in the battle 
of Blackburn's Ford, and at Bull Run was in 
reserve. After spending many months building 
and guarding forts in front of Washington, it 
was sent to the Peninsula, Aviiere it was engaged 
in the Seige of Yorktown, and the battles of 
Hanover Court House, Gaines' Mill, Savage's 
Station, White Oak Swamp and Malvern Hill. 





REGIMENTAL COLORS. 




Returning to the front of Washington, it partici- 
23ated in the Second Battle of Bull Run, and 
afterwards in the campaign in Maryhmd, and 
the battle of Fredericksburgh. It was during 
the period of active field service, a j^art of the 
3d Brigade, 1st Division of the 5th Army Corps. 






PRESENTATION OF 




COLORS OF THE tSTH REGIMENT «. Y. S. V< 

(Tliree Flags.) 




Three flags, two the National colors and one 
an embroidered banner, have been returned by 
the 13th regiment to the custody of the State 
for preservation. 

The regimental banner was presented by the 
ladies of Rochester. 

The new National flag was carried in the first 
battle of Bull Pvun only. The holes in the union 
were made u^Don that occasion. 

The old National flag was carried habitually 
on the march and in action. 

The loth regiment was raised in Rochester, 
under Colonel, now General Isaac Quimby, in 
April, 1861, and with the 12th N. Y. Volunteers, 
were the first troops to pass through Baltimore 
after the riot of April 19th, and the attack upon 
the 6th Massachusetts regiment. It participated 





REGIMENTAL COLORS. 




in the First Battle of Bull Bun, Seige of York- 
town, battles of Hanover Court House, Mechan- 
icsviLLE, Gaines' Mill, Turkey Bend, Malvern 
Hill, Second Bull Bun, Antietam (in reserve), 
Siiepardstoavn, and Fredericksburgh. The regi- 
ment, after an honorable service of two years, 
was mustered out on the 14th of May, 1863. 
The flags are transmitted to the Bureau of Mili- 
tary Statistics, by Col. E. (I. Marshall. 






PRESENTATION OF 





COLORS OF THE t4TH REGIMENT N. V. S. V. 

(One Flag.) 



This regiment was organized at Albany, from 
companies raised in Utica, Rome, Boonville, 
Batavia, Lowville and Hudson. It joined the 
army of the Potomac in June, 1861, and was 
eno-ased in the Seige of Yorktown, and in the 
battles of New Bridge, Hanover Court House, 
Mechanicsville, Gaines' Mill, Malvern Hill, 
Second Bull Bun, Shepardstown, Fredericks- 
burgh and Ciiancellorsville. 

The 14tli regiment received this banner from 
the hand of Governor Morgan, on its departure 
for the field, and on the expiration of its term 
of enlistment, it was returned to Governor Sey- 
mour soiled and tattered, but not dishonored. In 
reporting the history of the regiment, it is 
added with commendable pride that the 14th never 
had its pickets driven in, and never turned its back to 
the enemy in battle. 





REGIMENTAL COLORS. 




COIOBS OF THE t6TH REGIMENT N. V. S. V. 

(Two Flags.) 




These flags were presented by Mrs. Joseph 
Rowland of Fislikill, N. Y., the banner in June, 
1861, and the National flag, at Camp Franklin, 
near Alexandria, in March, 18G2, when Col. 
Rowland assumed command of the regiment. 
These flags have been borne in eighteen battles, 
skirmishes and reconnoisances, the principal of 
which were West Point, Va., Gaines' Mill, and 
the six following days of fighting and marching ; 
Crampton Gap, Antietam, 1st and 2d Frede- 
RiCKSBURGH. At Gaines' Mill the Color Bearers 
were three times shot down, and every one of 
the Color Guard was either killed or wounded 
except one. The staff of the regimental flag- 
was struck by a ball, while in the hands of the 
Color Bearer, and the ferule indented so that it 
could not be moved on the staff. At Crampton 





PRESENTATION OF 




Gap, Corp. Charles H. Conant was instantly 
killed by a Minnie ball through the head while 
holding one of the flags, and Corp. Robert Wat- 
son of the Color Guard, was shot through the 
leg. In this action the regiment, in charging 
upon the enemy, captured a rebel battle-flag 
from an Alabama regiment. 

Upon the expiration of its term of two years, 
the IGth regiment returned with its colors, which 
were presented to his Excellency, the Governor, 
to be deposited in the Bureau of Military Sta- 
tistics, the pledge given by the regiment to the 
donor, to "stand by, defend and preserve them," 
having been faithfully and honorably redeemed. 






EEGIMENTAL COLORS. 




COLORS or THE I7TH HEGtMENT W. V. S. V. 

(Tlirce Flags.) 



One National flag and two banners have been 
returned by this regiment. 

The National flag, much worn, was presented 
to the regiment by eight lady friends of Col. 
Lansing, and the blue banner by the city of New 
York. This regiment, sometimes known as the 
- "Westchester Chasseurs," was organized in New 
York, and participated in the Seige of Yorktown, 
and battles of Hanover Court House (where it 
captured the first cannon taken from the enemy 
by the army of the Potomac), Groveton (where 
it lost 13 officers and 250 men, killed and 
wounded), Antietam, Fredericksburgh and Chan- 

CELLORSVILLE. 

The 17th regiment was brigaded with the 3d 
Brigade, 1st Division, 5tli Army Corps, and its 
two years term of service expired in the spring 





PRESENTATION OF 



of 1863. A veteran regiment made up in part 
of men who served in this command, is now in 
the field, and is serving in the Department of 
the Southwest. 







REGIMENTAL COLORS. 




colons OF THE !8TH HECtMENT U. V. 3. V. 



(One Flag.) 




This flag was presented to the 18th regiment, 
Col. Wm. A. Jackson, by his lady friends of 
Albany, June 1, 1861, shortly before departure 
for the field. It bears the inscription " Rally 
around them." 

This regiment was organized at Albany, from 
companies enlisted in Albany, Schenectady, 
Fishkill, Walkill, Middletown and Ogdensburgh. 
It was engaged in the battles of First Bull Run, 
West Point, Gaines' Mill, Charles City Cross 
Roads, Malvern Hill, Crampton Pass, Antietam, 
First and Second Fredericksburgh, and Chancel- 
lorsville. Upon the expiration of the term of 
enlistment, this regiment returned home, and the 
colors were placed in the custody of the State by 
CoL. Geo. R. Myers, the last Colonel, who led the 
regiment in all its services after leaving the 
Peninsula, in August, 1862. 
6 





PRESENTATION OF 



colons OF THE 24TK HEGIMENT U. V* S. V. 

(One Flag.) 




This regiment was organized at Oswego, and 
was mostly enlisted in that county. It entered 
the field in 1861; served during the active 
campaign of 1862, and upon its returning after 
two years' service, placed this flag in the 
State archives. It is inscribed with its own 
history : Upon one side " Falmouth, Rappahan- 
nock Station, Warrenton Springs, Gainesville, 
Groveton, 2d Bull Run, South Mountain, Antie- 
tam, Fredericksburgh, Rappahannock Crossing, 
Chancellorsville," and upon the other : " 24th 
Regiment, Iron Brigade, 1st Division, 1st Army 
Corps." 






REGIMENTAL COLORS. 




COLORS OF THE 28TH RECtMENT N. V. S. V. 

(One Flag.) 




This resfiment was orcjanized at Elmira, from 
companies raised in Utica, Hamilton, Rochester 
and Tioga county. It served in the campaign 
of Virginia, under Gen. Pope; and in Maryland, 
under McClellan ; followed the enemy as he 
retired into Virginia, and returned at the expira- 
tion of its two years term of service. This flag 
was transmitted to the State archives, with the 
following letter : 

" To Gen. J. T. Sprague, > 

Adjutant General, N. Y. ) 
" Sir: I have the honor to return to the cus- 
tody of the State of New York, the colors car- 
ried by this regiment since June, 1861. They 
have been borne through every battle of Eastern 
Virginia, and under their folds have fallen five 
good and true men. # # # # # 

We return them to the State from which we 





PRESENTATION OF 




received them, well knowing they will be cher- 
ished as mementoes of the living and the dead. 
They bear the marks of bullets, and of the 
blood of those who defended them, and, as such, 
will always be regarded with respect and vene- 
ration by those who are left to mourn the loss of 
their comrades on the field of battle. 
Very respectfully, 

Your obedient servant, 

H. H. RICHARDSON, 
Col. Commanding 2&h N. Y. Vols. 

This regiment was at the battles of Cedar 
Mountain, R^appahannock Station, Thoroughfare 
Gap, Groveton, South Mountain, Antietam, 
Fredericksburgh and Ciiancellorsville. 

At Groveton, about 150 were killed and 
wounded; at Antietam, 30; and at Fredericks- 
burgh, 162. 






REGIMENTAL COLORS. 




COLORS OF THE 27TH REGIMENT N. V. S. V. 

(One Flag.) 



This regiment was organized at Elmira, from 
companies raised in Hochester, Binghamton, 
Lyons, Angelica and Lima, and entered the 
field under Col. SlocuxM, since jDromoted to the 
rank of Major General in command oX a corps. 
CoL. Bartlett, who succeeded, was also pro- 
moted to the command of a division. 

The 27th regiment received this flag, May 22d, 
18G1, from Company G., and this company the 
same day received it from Mrs. Philip Churcu of 
Belvidere. It was borne in the battles of 1st 
Bull PtUN, Mechanicsville, West Point, Gaines' 
Mill, Goldsborough's Farm, Chickahominy, White 
Oak Creek, Malvern Hill, Crampton Pass, Antie- 
TAM, and the 1st and 2d battles of Fredericks- 
burgh. The bearer at Gaines' Mill was severely 
wounded. The flag has been many times struck 




f 



46 PRESENTATION OF 




by the enemy's shot, and the Larger holes were 
made by fragments of shell. 

The star in the case appended to the lance, 
was literally shot out of the flag, while the regi- 
ment was storming the Heights of Fredericks- 
burgh, in May, 1863. It was contributed to the 
Bureau of Military Statistics by A. L. Van Ness, 
of Dansville, N. Y., who was the Color Bearer in 
that assault. The flag itself was transmitted by 
CoL. Adams. 






REGIMENTAL COLORS. 




GUIDON OF THE 28TH REGIMENT N. V. S. V. 

(One Flag.) 




At the battle of Chancellorsville, John Otto 
Swan of Medina, aged 15 years (enlisted as a 
drummer, and then acting as a marker), displayed 
great activity and energy. A soldier of Com- 
pany E was shot dead, Avhen the boy took this 
flag from its staff, put it in his pocket, adjusted 
upon himself the accoutrements of the dead sol- 
dier, and fought gallantly in the ranks, until 
with 65 men and 3 officers he was taken prisoner. 
Concealing the flag under the lining of his coat, 
he kept it with him when taken to Richmond, 
and managed to bring it away unobserved when 
exchanged and sent home. 

The flag is deposited by the lad's flither, as an 
honorable memorial of the services of a patriotic 
son. 

The other flags of the regiment were lost in 
the service. 





PRESENTATION OF 




COLORS OF THE 29TH REGIMENT N. V. S. V. 

(Three Flags.) 




This regiment was composed exclusively of 
Germans, and was organized in New York under 
Col. (now General) A. Von Steinwehr. It was 
engaged in the 1st Battle of Bull Run, Cross 
Keys, Warrenton Sulphur Springs, 2d Bull Bun, 
and Chancellorsville, and upon the expiration of 
the two years' term of the regiment, its flags 
were placed for preservation in the State ar- 
chives. The 29th was a part of the 1st Brigade, 
2d Division, 11th Army Corps, and during the 
active period of the campaign of 1862, served 
under General Fremont, in the Mountain Depart- 
ment, and in the Corps of General Sigel, in the 
army of Virginia. It went to the field with 745 
men, and returned with 339. During the two 
years, 33 men were killed fighting under these 
colors. 





REGIMENTAL COLORS. 




colons OF THE 320 HECIMENT N. V. S> V. 

(Two Flags.) 




This regiment was originally intended to serve 
under Col. Baker of California, and for a time 
was called the "1st California Regiment." It 
was organized on Staten Island, from companies 
enlisted in Johnstown, Amsterdam, Ithaca, Tar- 
rytown and New York city, and served as a part 
of the 3d Brigade, 1st Division, Gth Corps. 

The National flag was presented to the 32d 
regiment, June 28th, 1861, by the lady of the 
Hon. Wm. Laimbier, Jr., of New York city ; and 
the banner, by the city of New York, in the fall 
of 1861. 

This regiment was engaged in the First Bat- 
tle OF Bull Run, Wfst Point, Gaines' Mill, 
White Oak Swamp, Charles City Cross Roads, 
2d Bull Run, Crampton Pass, Antietam, Frede- 
RiCKSBURGH and Chancellorsville. During its 
7 





PRESENTATION OF 




two years' term of service, the 32d regiment 
lost 34 killed, and 127 wounded in action Its 
colonel and major were mortally Avounded at 
Crampton Pass, where the regiment charged on 
the enemy, and assisted in driving them up and 
over the mountain with heavy loss. 






REGIMENTAL COLORS. 




COLORS OF THE 34TH REGIMENT K. V. S. V. 

(One Flag.) 




This regiment was organized at Albany, in 
May, 1861. Five of its companies were enrolled 
in Herkimer county, two in Steuben, one in 
Clinton, one in Essex, and one in West Troy, 
Albany county. It was mustered into the serv- 
ice of the United States, June 15th, and soon 
after being sent to the seat of Avar, was assigned 
to duty in Maryland on the upper Potomac. 

It participated in the battle of Ball's Bluff, 
the Seige of Yorktown, battles of West Point, 
Fair Oaks, Seven Pines, Peach Orchard Station, 
Savage's Station, White Oak Swamp, Glendale, 
Malvern Hill, South Mountain, Antietam, Ash- 
by's Gap, and Fredericksburgh. 

The 34th was brigaded with the 1st Brigade, 
'^d Division, 2d Army Corps. 





PRESENTATION OF 




colons OF THE 37TH REGIMENT N. V. S. V. 

(Tliree Flags.) 



This Regiment was raised in New York city, 
and was sometimes known as the " Irish Eifles." 

Upon the expiration of its two years' term, it 
phaced in the custody of the Bureau of Military 
Statistics, seven flags, including two guidons and 
two designation flags, together with all its papers 
and records. 

The National flag that shows the greatest 
amount of service, was received by the regiment, 
when it arrived in Washington in July, 1861. 
In camp or in bivouack it was always before the 
regimental headquarters, and it was borne in the 
following battles : 1st Bull Run (in reserve), 

WiLLIAMSBURGH, FaIR OaKS, GlENDALE, MaLVERN 

Hill, 2d Bull Run, Chantilly, Fredericksburgh 
and Chancellorsville. It was also with the 
regiment in the Seige of Yorktown, and in seve 





REGIMENTAL COLORS. 




ral skirmishes on the Occoquan, in front of York- 
town, Richmond, &c. 

The Green banner was presented by the city 
of New York, in February, 18G2, and was with 
the regiment in front of Fredericksburgh, and 
in the battle of Chancellorsville. It is inscribed 
with the names " Williamsburgh," "Fair Oaks," 
" Fredericksburgh," "Glendale," " Malvern Hill." 

The new National flag, companion to the green 
banner, replaces on the original staff one that 
was lost at Chancellorsville. The flag was re- 
moved by Lloyd, the bearer, and wrapped around 
his body, as it was liable to be torn in passing 
through the tangled brush through which he was 
obliged to creep. This brave and intelligent 
soldier was killed, and his body was buried, 
without suspecting that the flag was wrapped 
around his person under his coat. Repeated 
efforts were made to find his grave, but without 
success. 






PRESENTATION OF 




colons OF THE aSTH HECIMENT U. V. 8. V. 

(Two Flags.) 



This regiment was organized in New York, 
under Colonel, now General J. H. Hobart Ward, 
and was known at that time as the " Second 
Regiment Scott Life Guard." These colors were 
presented by the citizens and the city of New 
York. The regiment before receiving them, 
was engaged in the First Battle of Bull Bun. 
It was subsequently in the Seige of Yorktown, 
and the battles of Williamsburgh, Fair Oaks, 
The Orchard, Glendale, Charles City Cross 
Roads, Malvern Hill, Second Bull Bun, Chan- 
TiLLY, Fredericksburgh, Chancellorsville and 
Gettysburgh. 






REGIMENTAL COLORS. 




COLORS or THE S9TH REGIMENT N. V. S. V. 

(Three Flags.) 




The refi^imental banner of this reo;iment was 
presented by Ex-Mayor Kingsland of New York, 
on behalf of citizens of that phace, and the two 
other flags by the city of New York. 

The regiment has been engaged in the follow- 
ing battles: Malvern Hill, Chantilly, South 
Mountain, Antietam, First Fredericksburgii, 
Mayre's Heights, Thoroughfare Gap, Gettys- 
burgh, Bristow Station and Mine Run. 

The loss at Antietam was very severe. Out 
of twenty-one officers and three hundred and 
sixty men which went into the fight, thirteen 
officers and two hundred and thirty men were 
killed, wounded or taken j^risoners. Seven of 
the eight Color Guard were either killed or 
wounded, and the remaining one received and 



(vjp 



s=« 




PRESENTATION OF 



brought off the colors of a Pennsylvania regi- 
ment. 

The top of the staff of one of the National 
flags was shattered by a shell bursting over it at 
the battle of Freclericksburgh, Dec. 13, 1862. 

The flags were deposited by Lieut. Col. H. P. 
Hugo, with two guidons received from the city 
of New York. 







REGIMENTAL COLORS. 




COLORS OF THE 6tST REGIMENT N. V. S. V. 

(One Flag.) 




This regriment was oro;anized in New York in 
the fall of 1861, under the name of the " Clinton 
Life Guards." 

This flag was presented by the city of New 
York, and was used as a parade flag until the 
Peninsular campaign. It was laid aside until the 
spring of 1863, when it was again used through 
the season as a regimental flag. It was carried 
through the battles of Chancellorsville, Gettys- 
BURGH, Auburn, Bristow Station, and Mine Run. 

At Getty sburgh, the Color Bearer and two of 
the guard were severely wounded. The loss 
here was one officer killed and five wounded, and 
sixty-eight enlisted men killed and wounded. 
This flag is sent to the State archives for pre- 
servation, by Col. Nelson A. Miles. 
8 





PRESENTATION OF 




While on the Peninsula, this regiment was 
engaged in the battles of Yorktown, Fair Oaks, 
Peach Orchard, Savage's Station, White Oak 
Swamp, and Charles City Cross PtOADS, and sub- 
sequently at Antietam, Charlestown, Snicker's 
Gap and Fredericksburgh. The flag under which 
the regiment fought their battles, was presented 
at the last session of the Legislature. 






REGIMENTAL COLORS. 




COLORS OF THE 64TH REGIMENT N. V. S. V, 

(One Flag.) 




This regiment was enlisted chiefly in Catta- 
raugus, Allegany and Tompkins counties. It was 
engaged in the Seige of Yorktown and in the 
battles of Fair Oaks, Gaines' Mill, Peach 
Orchard, Savage's Station, White Oak Swamp, 
Malvern Hill, Antietam, Fredericksburgh, Chan- 
cellorsville and Gettysburgh. It was also en- 
gaged in several skirmishes, the most important 
of which were at South Mountain, Charlestown, 
Va., and Snicker's Gap. 

At Gettysburgh, on the 2d of July, 1863, this 
flag was carried by Chauncey McKoon of Com- 
pany B, who was severely wounded in the thigh. 
It was then taken by Edmund Stone, Company 
D, who was killed. It was then raised by 
Sergeant Blackmore, who carried it through 





60 



PRESENTATION OF 




the remainder of the battle, and brought it off 
safe. 

It is transmitted to the Bureau of Military 
Statistics by Col. D. G. Bingham, the present 
Colonel. 






REGIMENTAL COLORS. 




COLORS OF THE 7STH REGIMENT N. V. S. V. 

(One Flag.) 



This regiment was organized at Auburn, Nov. 
14, 1861, and left the State on the 30th of that 
month, receiving this jflag at the hands of ladies 
of Auburn before its departure. 

The 75th served several months at Key West 
and Pensacola, and formed a part of the expedi- 
tion of General Banks. It was engaged in the 
three battles before Port Hudson, May 25th, 
May 27th, and June 14th, 1863, and has since 
been engaged in imjjortant services in Louisiana. 

The colors were transmitted to the Bureau of 
Military Statistics, by Col. Robert B. Merritt, 
the 23resent commandant. 






PRESENTATION OF 




COLORS OF THE 76TH RECtMENT «. V. S. V. 

(One Flag.) 




This regiment was organized in Cortland 
county, and left the State in January, 1862. In 
the ensuing campaign it was brigaded with the 
2d Brigade, 1st Division, 1st Army Corps, and 
shared the fortunes of the army under Generals 
Pope and McClellan, in the campaign of Vir- 
ginia and Maryland, participating in the battles 
of Rappahannock Station, Warrenton Sulphur 
Springs, Gainesville, Second Bull Run, South 
Mountain, Antietam and Upperville. It served 
under General Burnside at the battle of Frede- 
RiCKSBURGH ; uiidcr General Hooker during four 
days marching and fighting at Chancellorsville; 
and under General Meade at Gettysburgh and 
Mine Run. 

This flag was presented to the regiment on the 





REGIMENTAL COLORS. 




steps of the Capitol in Albany, upon its depart- 
ure for the field, by Mrs. Campbell of York Mills, 
Oneida county, with public ceremonies, and was 
carried until December, 1863. It received fif- 
teen musket balls and one twelve pound shot 
through it in action. The Color Bearer, Ser- 
geant Champ, was killed at South Mountain. 
At Getty sburgh the Color Bearer was wounded 
just as the regiment was falling back, and came 
near being captured, but was rescued by private 
John Stephens of Company H, who left the 
ranks under the fire of the enemy, and reco- 
vered the flag in safety. He was promoted to a 
Sergeant for his gallantry on that occasion. 

The flag is transmitted to the Bureau of Mili- 
tary Statistics by Captain A. L. Swan, of Com- 
pany H, of the 76th regiment. 






PRESENTATION OF 




COLORS OF THE 77TH REGIMENT N. V. S. V. 



(Oue Flag.) 




This regiment was organized in Saratoga 
county, and while forming, was known as the 
" Bemis Heights Regiment." This flag was pre- 
sented November 29, 1861, by citizens of Sara- 
toga county, resident in New York city. It has 
been carried in the battle of Lee's Mills, the 
Seige of Yorktown, battles of Mechanicsville, 
Golden's Farm, Garnet's Hill, White Oak Swamp, 
Crampton Pass, Antietam, Fredericksburgh, 
Mayres' Heights and Gettysburgh. The Bearers 
were Sergeant Isaac Bemis, and afterwards Cor- 
poral Michael Mc Williams. In the charge up 
Mayres' Heights, one of the Color Guard was 
killed, and the flag was torn into shreds by a 
shell. 

The Guide colors (one of which is attached). 





REGIMENTAL COLORS. 




were presented at the same time and place, have 
been used during the same j^eriod. That on the 
right of the line was crimson, and that on the 
left, blue. 






PRESENTATION OF 




COLORS OF THE 20TH N. V. STATE MIUTtA. 

"80TH N. Y. S. VOLUNTEERS." 
(One Flag.) 




This regiment, sometimes known as the 
" Ulster Guard," went to the field as a militia 
regiment, under Col. Geo. W. Pratt, for a term 
of three months, a few days after the beginning 
of the war. 

Upon its return it was re-organized for three 
years, and it has recently re-enlisted for the war. 

This regiment was in the battles of Rappahan- 
nock Station, Warrenton Springs, Groveton, 2d 
Bull Run (where Colonel Pratt was mortally 
wounded), Chantilly, South Mountain, Antietam, 
Fredericksburgh, Chancellorsville and Gettys- 

BURGH. 

The regiment lost 35 killed and 232 wounded 
in the campaign of 1862, while fighting under 
these colors. 





REGIMENTAL COLORS. 





COLORS OF THE 9tST nEGtMENT N. V. S. V. 

(One Flag.) 



Upon the departure of the 91st from Albany 
for Key West, in December, 1861, it received a 
National flag, of which the one here exhibited is 
a part. The regiment served for some time at 
Pensacola, and subsequently under Gen. Banks 
in Louisiana. 

It was engaged at Irish Bend, Vermillion, 
Bayou, and the three battles before Port Hudson, 
of May 25th and 27th, and June 14th, 1863. In 
one of these the flag was torn in two, and this 
portion was brought into a hospital by one of 
the Color Guard, who was wounded. The part 
that remained on the lance is still with the regi- 
ment, and in due time the two will be re-united. 

This flag is presented through Col. Harcourt 
of Albany, by whom it was originally presented 
to the regiment. 





PRESENTATION OF 




colons or the doth regiment n. v. $. v. 

(One riag.) 



This regiment was organized at PlattslDurgh 
under Col. F airman. It served in the Seige of 
YoRKTOWN, and the battles of Williamsburgh, 
Seven Pines, Fair Oaks, Chickahominy Swamp, 
White Oak Swamp, Rail Road Bridge, Bottom 
Bridge, Long's Bridge, Jones' Ford, Charles City 
Cross Roads, Harrison's Point, Black Water and 
Kinston. 

Col. Charles 0. Gray succeeded to the com- 
mand of the regiment, and was killed in action, 
Dec. 14, 1862, in the act of planting his colors 
on the enemy's position, on the bridge over the 
Neuse River, at Kinston, N. C. 

This regiment has re-enlisted with General 
Ledlie's Veteran Brigade, and is now serving in 
the Department of North Carolina. 






KEGIMENTAL COLORS. 




COLOBS OF THE 97TH RECtMENT N. V. S. V. 

(One Fla^.) 



WIS 

e- 



This regiment was organized at Boonville, and 
was made up by enlistments in Oneida, Le 
and Herkimer counties. These colors were pi 
sented to the regiment by the ladies of Boon- 
ville, and have been carried in the battles of 
Cedar Mountain, Rappahannock Station, Tho- 
roughfare Gap, 2d Bull Run, Chantilly, South 
Mountain, Antietam, Fredericksburgh, Chancel- 
lorsville and Gettysburgh. 

A portion of this regiment has re-enlisted for 
the war, and the record of its services are of the 
most honorable character. Its numbers, at one 
time greatly reduced by casualties, have been 
increased by conscripts and substitutes, to a full 
and efficient regiment. 






PRESENTATION OF 




COLORS OF THE I04TH REGIMENT N. V. S. V. 

(One Flag.) 




This banner was presented to the 104th regi- 
ment (Wadsworth Guard), bj Gen. James S. 
Wadsworth, in April, 1862, and it was carried 
through the campaign of 1862, under General 
Pope and McClellan; and in 1863 on the march 
into Maryland and Pennsylvania. 

This regiment was under an active cannonade 
on the evening following the battle of Cedar 
Mountain, in the three days' battle on the Rap- 
pahannock, and at the battles of Thoroughfare 
Gap, Second Bull Hun, South Mountain, Antie- 
TAM, Fredericksburgh, Chancellorsville and Get- 
tysburgh, besides in numerous skirmishes. 

One of the Bearers was severely wounded at 
South Mountain, and another at Antietam. At 
Getty sburgh, seven of the Sergeants and Color 
Guard were killed or wounded in sustaining 





REGIMENTAL COLORS. 




them, and the Corporal who took the National 
flag being in danger of capture, tore the flag from 
the staff" and stamped it into the ground to con- 
ceal it from the enemy's notice. This flag was 
barely saved by great vigilance. 

The 104th has sustained an honorable repu- 
tation, and is still in the service. The flag is 
sent by Lieut. Col. Strong, for preservation in 
the State archives. 

The 104tli regiment was organized at Geneseo, 
and made up of volunteers enlisted in Livingston 
county, with the exception of three comjDanies 
from Troy, that were consolidated before leaving 
the State. 






PRESENTATION OF 




COLOnS OF THE tSOTH HEGIMEMT U. V. S. V. 

(One Flag.) 



This regiment was organized by the Senatorial 
Committee of the 30th District, at Portage, and 
was recruited in Livingston, Wyoming and Alle- 
gany counties. In the autumn of 1862, it was 
sent to Fortress Monroe, and was engaged in the 
operations near Suffolk, as a part of the Seventh 
Army Corps. On the 11th day of August, 1863, 
this regiment was changed to the 19th N. Y. 
Cavalry, and since September, 10th, 1863, it has 
been known as the First Regiment of Dragoons, 
New York State Volunteers. These colors were 
borne by the regiment only during its services 
as an Infantry organization. 






COLORS OF THE t46TH REGIMENT W. V. S. V 



(One Flag.) 



This regiment was organized at Rome, under 
the direction of the Senatorial Committee of the 
19th District, and left the State September 27, 
1862. It was assigned to the 3d Brigade, 2d 
Division, 5th Army Corps, and fought at Frede- 
RiCKSBURGH, Chancellorsville and Gettysburgh, 
as a part of the 3d Brigade, 2d Division, 5th 
Corps. 




PRESENTATION OP 




COLORS or THE t77TH REGIMENT N. V. S. V. 

(Two Flags.) 




The lOtli regiment National Guards was organ- 
ized for a nine months' term of service, under 
the name of the " 177th Volunteers," at Albany, 
in November, 1862, and sent with Gen. Banks' 
Expedition to the Department of the Gulf. 

It was attached to the 3d Brigade, 2d Division, 
19th Corps, and served in two campaigns upon 
the Amite River, and through the entire Seige of 
Port Hudson, taking part in the battles of May 
27 and June 14, 1863. 

The regiment retuimed in August, 1863, by 
way of the Mississippi River, the route origi- 
nally promised by General Banks to the troops 
of his Expedition. 

The National flag here presented, was received 
by the regiment while stationed at Bonne Car- 
rie, La., from Mrs. Merriiiew, the wife of an 
officer of the reofiment. 





REGIMENTAL COLORS. 




C O L O li 



$D «. V. STATE AHTIUEnV REGIMENT, 

FORMERLY THE I9TH REGIMENT OF INFANTRY. 
(One Flag.) 



This regiment entered the field in the summer 
of 1861, and on the 11th of December of that 
year, was changed to Artillery. Four companies 
were added, and in April it was sent to Newbern, 
N. C. The banner here exhibited is inscribed 
by authority with the names of battles in which 
it has been engaged : Lovettsville, Fort Macon, 
Washington, N. C, South West Creek, Kinston, 
Whitehall, Goldsborough, Newbern, and Seige of 
Washington. The greater part of this regiment 
have re-enlisted with General Ledlie's Veteran 
Brioade. 






PRESENTATION OF 




C O L O K, S 

OF THE 

7TH N. V. STATE INDEPENDENT BATTERY. 

(One Flag.) 



This battery was raised in Newbnrgh and 
Cornwall, under Captain Peter C. Regan, and 
originally formed a part of the " Tenth Legion," 
or 56th regiment N. Y. Volunteers. 

Upon entering the field it was detached and 
made an Independent Battery. 

It served on the Peninsula, and subsequently 
with the 7th Army Corps, in Southeastern Vir- 
ginia. The guidon was struck by a shell at the 
battle of Fair Oaks. 






REGIMENTAL COLORS. 




COLORS 

OP THE 

ttTH N.V. STATE INDEPENDENT BATTERV. 

(Three Flags.) 



The flag, banner and guidon exhibited, be- 
longed to the Eleventh N. Y. Independent Bat- 
tery, sometimes called the " Havelock Battery," 
which was raised in Albany, under the auspices 
of the Young Men's Christian Association. 

After serving several months as heavy artil- 
lery, it was sent to the field, and the guidon is 
inscribed by authority with the names of the 
following battles, in which it has participated : 
Manassas, Chantilly, Mine Run, Gettysburgh, 
Bristow Station, Chancellorsville, Rappahan- 
nock and Fredericksburgh. 






PRESENTATION OF 




HISTORY OF THE NATIONAL FLAG. 



BY ALFRED B. STREET 




The most interesting incident connected with 
the battle of Saratoga was the unfurling, for the 
first time, the Stars and Stripes at the surrender 
of Burgoyne, 

Bunker Hill was fought under a red flag, bear- 
ing the motto, " Come if you dare ! " but on the 
14th of June, 1777, the Continental Congress 
resolved " That the flag of the thirteen United 
States be thirteen stripes, alternate red and 
white, and that the Union be thirteen stars, 
white on a blue field, representing a new constel- 
lation." 

This was made public on the 3d of September 
following. Previous to this our National banner 
was the Union flag, combining the crosses of St. 
George and St. Andrew (taken from the English 





REGIMENTAL COLORS. 





banner) with thirteen stripes, alternate red and 
white. The banner of St. Patrick (Irehmd's 
emblem) was not combined with the crosses of 
St. George and St. Andrew in the Standard of 
Great Britain until 1801, the year of the union 
with Ireland. 

The stars of the new flag represented the new 
constellation of States, the idea taken from the 
constellation Lyra, which signifies harmony. 
The blue of the field was taken from the Cove- 
nanters' banner in Scotland, likewise significant 
of the league and covenant of the United Colo- 
nies against oppression, and incidentally involv- 
ing vigilance, perseverance and justice. The 
stars were disposed in a circle, symbolizing the 
perpetuity of the Union, the circle being the 
sign of eternity. The thirteen stripes showed, 
with the stars, the number of the United Colo- 
nies, and denoted the subordination of the States 
to, and their dependence upon the Union, as well 
as equality among themselves. The whole was 
a blending of the various flags previous to the 
Union flag, viz : the red flags of the army and 
white ones of the floating batteries — the germ 





PRESENTATION OF 





of our navy. The red color, also, which in 
Roman days was the signal of defiance, denoted 
daring, and the white purity. 

By the United States law of January 13, 1794, 
it was enacted " that, from and after the first of 
May, 1795, the flag of the United States shall be 
fifteen stripes, alternate red and white, and 
" that the Union be fifteen stars, white in a blue 
field." This was our National flag during the 
war of 1812. 

On the 4th of April, 1818, Congress altered 
the flag, by directing a return to the thirteen 
stripes, as follows : 

" Be it enacted, etc., That from and after the 
4th day of July next, the flag of the United 
States be thirteen horizontal stripes, alternate 
red and white ; that the Union be twenty stars, 
white, in a blue field. 

" And be it further enacted, That, on the 
admission of a new State into the Union, one 
star be added to the union of the flag; and that 
such addition shall take effect on the 4th day of 
July next succeeding such admission." 

The return to the thirteen stripes was by 





reason of the anticipation that the addition of a 
stripe on the admission of each State would 
make the flag too unwieldj. The old number 
of stripes also perpetuated the original number 
of States of the Union, while the addition of the 
stars showed the Union in its existing state. 

The flag planted bj our troops in the citj of 
Mexico, at the conclusion of the Mexican war, 
bore thirty stars. 

The size of the flag for the army is six feet 
six inches in length, by six feet in width, with 
seven red and six white stripes. The first seven 
stripes (four red and tliree white) bound the 
square of the blue field for the stars, the stripes 
extending from the extremity of the field to the 
end of the flag. The eighth stripe is white, ex- 
tending partly at the base of the field. The 
number of stars is thirty-five. 

What eloquence do the Stars and Stripes 
breathe, when their full significance is known! 
A new constellation; union; perpetuity; a cove- 
nant against oppression; equality; subordina- 
tion; courage; purity. 



Success to the Flag of our Nation ! 

Its folds all around us be spread ! 
Emblazoned with deeds of the valiant, 

And sacred with names of the dead ! 
Its stars are the symbol of Union, 

In Union they ever shall wave I 
Its white is the emblem of honor ! 

Its red is the blood of the brave. 

Success to the Flag of our Nation ! 

Let it stream o'er the land and the sea ! 
The shades of our heroes are round it. 

Beneath it, the ranks of the Free. 
Let us swear we will ever defend it 

In the trials to come, as of yore, 
Lift it high, a broad beacon of Freedom 

To the world, until Time is no more ! 




LIBRARY OF CONGRESS 





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